Avis Car Rental announced Aug. 16 that it has enhanced its customer loyalty program, Avis First, by removing the blackout restrictions on its two-day weekend rental reward certificates.

The changes also make it easier for Avis First members to redeem the certificates during holiday periods, around major events and in key markets, according to the company’s announcement.

Certificates are valid at participating Avis locations in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Members can earn up to eight free certificates per calendar year.

Other benefits to Avis First include free one-car-class upgrades when available; access to a members-only website, www.avisfirst.com, which tracks rental activity and reward redemption; a dedicated toll-free phone number; and access to special offers throughout the year.

To be eligible for Avis First, residents of the United States and Canada must rent with their Wizard number and be enrolled in Avis Preferred, the company's express rental program. When an Avis Preferred member has completed 12 qualifying rentals or 35 qualifying rental days in a calendar-year period, the member is automatically invited and enrolled into Avis First.